HomeMy WebLinkAboutSDP 2018-0004; ROMERIA POINTE APARTMENTS; GEOTECHNICAL RESPONSE TO CONCERNS; 2019-11-20GEOTECHNICAL RESPONSE TO CONCERNS
RAISED AT THE JUNE 11, 2019 CITY OF CARLSBAD
CITY COUNCIL MEETING PERTAINING TO THE
GEOTECHNICAL CONDITIONS AT THE
ROMERIA POINTE APARTMENTS PROJECT SITE
AND NEAR VICINITY, 7527 ROMERIA STREET
CARLSBAD, SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA 92009
ASSESS9P_: UM¥ffS1APNS 2).6-900-12-& -13
Cl OF C P OJECT 0.: S P 01
W.O. 7297-A3-SC NOVEMBER 20, 2019
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Geotechnical • Geologic • Coastal • Environmental
5741 Palmer Way • Carlsbad, California 92010 • (760) 438-3155 • FAX (760) 931-0915 • www.geosoilsinc.com
November 20, 2019
W.O. 7297-A3-SC
BNR Investment and Development, LLC
28000 Via Del Rio
Yorba Linda, California 92887
Attention: Mr. Ram Setya
Subject: Geotechnical Response to Issues Raised at the June 11, 2019 City of
Carlsbad City Council Meeting Pertaining to the Geotechnical Conditions at
the Romeria Pointe Apartments Project Site and Near Vicinity, 7527 Romeria
Street, Carlsbad, San Diego County, California 92009, Assessor's Parcel
Numbers (APNs) 216-300-12 & -13, City of Carlsbad Project
No.: SDP2018-0004
Dear Mr. Setya:
In accordance with your recent request and authorization, GeoSoils, Inc. (GSI), is providing
this geotechnical response to issues raised by project appellants, public commentators,
and City of Carlsbad City Council Members during the June 11, 2019 City Council hearing.
A list of the concerns brought up at said hearing were provided to GSI by Mr. John Allen
of Streamline Development Group (Project Construction Manager).
Pertinent project references are provided in Appendix A. For ease of reference, the
minutes from the City Council hearing and Mr. Allen's notes summarizing the concerns
voiced by project appellants, public commentators, and City Council Members are
provided in Appendix B. In order for the reviewers of this document to develop an
understanding of the geotechnicat conditions within the Romeria Pointe property and
the southerly adjacent Villa Romeria property, we have summarized the geotechnical
background information thereon in Appendices C and D, respectively.
GSl's responses to the issues raised at the June 11, 2019 City Council hearing are
provided in the Executive Summary below:
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Issue No. 1 -"Land Instability" (Appellant Terminology)
Some of the project appellants voiced concern about the existing land stability problems
in the area.
GSI Response
Land instability can manifest in several different forms including landslides (surficial and
deep-seated), settlement, and seismic-induced ground deformations (liquefaction, lateral
spreading, etc.). GSI has evaluated the potential for land instability within the Romeria
Pointe property and near vicinity through the following investigative techniques:
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Reviews of regional geologic maps (Kennedy and Tan, 2007; Eisenberg, 1983; and
Tan and Giffen, 1995);
Reviews of geotechnical hazard maps prepared for the City of Carlsbad (Leighton
and Associates, Inc. [L&A], 1992);
Reviews of readily available geotechnical reports for the Romeria Pointe property,
prepared prior to our site-specific work (Benton Engineering, Inc. [BEi], 1969 and
1970; East County Soil Consultation and Engineering, Inc. [ECSC&E], 2001 ; Soil
Pacific, Inc. [SPI], 2003);
Reviews of readily available geotechnical and engineering reports, and engineering
mitigation plans for the adjacent southerly property called "Villa Romeria"
(Catlin and Company, Inc. [C&C], 1984a, 1984b, 1984c, 1984d, and 1984e; Catlin
Engineering Associates, Inc. [CEA], 1996, 1998a, 1998b, and 1998c;
Helfrich-Associates, 2014a, 2014b, and 2014c);
Reviews of readily available geotechnical reports for the multi-family residential
development located at 7546 Romeria Street (Vinje and Middleton Engineering, Inc.
[V&ME], 1998 and 2000);
Reviews of historical stereoscopic aerial photographs (Park Aerial Surveys, Inc .
1953); and
Site-specific subsurface exploration and analyses .
Based on our document and aerial photograph reviews, and our observations during field
work, there is no data within the available body of information suggesting the presence of
landslide deposits within the Romeria Pointe property. In addition, the Romeria Pointe
property does not contain high groundwater conditions nor young, unconsolidated
deposits that could contribute to earthquake-induced liquefaction and associated
secondary hazards (i.e., dynamic settlement, lateral spreading, etc.). Based on our site-
specific work, it remains our opinion that the most significant geotechnical factors within
the Romeria Pointe property that could contribute to land instability include settlement of
the existing fill, placed during original grading of the encompassing La Costa South, Unit
No. 5 subdivision in 1970, and the potential surficial instability of the existing 1 ½:1
(horizontal:vertical [h:v]) fill slopes within the Romeria Pointe property. However, the
recommendations for foundation support using cast-in-drilled-hole (CIDH) piles and the
BNR Investment and Development, LLC.
Romeria Pointe Apartments, Carlsbad
File:e:\wp12\7200\7297a3.grt GeoSoils, Inc.
W.O. 7297-A3-SC
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Page 3
slope regrading, outlined in GSI (2017), will provide appropriate mitigation. Therefore, it
is our professional opinion that the proposed Romeria Pointe development will not create
an impact of land instability.
The standard of care is to develop engineering mitigation to reasonably support adjacent
properties during construction. Provided that our recommendations for shoring, CIDH pile
foundations, and existing slope regrading are properly incorporated into the project plans
and implemented during construction, it is our opinion that the Romeria Pointe project will
not induce land instability on adjacent properties.
Issue No. 2 -"Slippage" (Appellant Terminology)
The potential for the Romeria Pointe project to induce further "slippage" on the adjacent
Villa Romeria Property was an issue raised by project appellants, public commentators,
and City Council Members at the City Council hearing.
GSI Response
Based on oral statements provided by Villa Romeria property owners at the hearing and
our review of readily available existing geotechnical reports (CEA; 1996, 1998a, 1998b,
1998c), and engineering documents (Helfrich-Associates; 2014a, 2014b, 2014c), GSI
understands that in 1998 and 2014, the existing condominium structure at the Villa
Romeria property received foundation underpinning and re-leveling through the installation
of hydraulically driven pipe piles to address adverse soil movement and associated
structural distress. If properly implemented, this type of repair can mitigate structural
distress if the cause is singularly related to settlement. However, it may not be an
appropriate remedial measure for lateral movement or shrink/swell of expansive soils.
Investigative techniques such as subsurface exploration, laboratory testing, and monitoring
were not conducted by CEA during their 1996 evaluation of the structural distress (CEA,
1996). However, based on site observations and a floor-level survey they concluded that
the possible contributors of the observed distress features might include expansive soils,
slope creep or some drift of the "curb" [crib(sic)] wall behind 7553 Romeria Street, lateral
fill extension, and/or fill settlement due to differential compressibility in a cut/fill transition
lot. CEA also mentioned that structural distress could be attributed to slope instability but
indicated that additional exploratory work would be required to state with any certainty that
this phenomena was present. GSI did not review any follow-up subsurface work by CEA
to evaluate slope instability.
The 2014 engineering evaluation performed by Helfrich-Associates (Helfrich-Associates,
2014c) was less comprehensive than the 1996 study performed by CEA. In addition,
Helfrich-Associates offered no substantive conclusions as to the causes of the structural
distress. It appears they repeated similar mitigation implemented by CEA in 1998.
BNR Investment and Development, LLC.
Romeria Pointe Apartments, Carlsbad
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GSI is unaware of any post-repair monitoring studies performed within the Villa Romeria
property following both of the foundation retrofit projects. Given this and the level of
geotechnical subsurface evaluation prior to the twice-performed mitigation projects, the
effectiveness of the repairs is currently unknown. Based on our review of the readily
available background geotechnical information for the Villa Romeria property (see
Appendix D), there appears to be a recurring pattern of implementing mitigation without
performing subsurface studies needed to develop any understanding of the causes of
distress and the adequacy of the repair.
In summary, it is our opinion that the Romeria Pointe project will not induce "slippage" on
the Villa Romeria property for the following reasons:
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The Romeria Pointe property will be located down-gradient from the Villa Romeria
property. Therefore, it will not surcharge the Villa Romeria property nor direct
surface drainage toward the Villa Romeria property that could adversely affect the
performance of the existing fill soils nor induce activity on expansive soils thereon.
Although the Romeria Pointe project requires planned excavations of approximately
1 O½ feet near the northerly property line of Villa Romeria, temporary shoring and
permanent retaining walls will be designed to support the adjacent fill along the Villa
Romeria property boundary. The pre-construction surveys and the monitoring of
excavations, and shoring, recommended in GSI (2017), would further reduce
potential impacts to the Villa Romeria property.
The Romeria Pointe project involves the construction of impervious areas (i.e.,
buildings, pavements, hardscape, etc.) with permanent stormwater treatment and
disposal occurring in a contained system that includes impermeable membranes
and piping intended to reduce the introduction of moisture into the existing,
expansive fills and the descending slopes.
The Romeria Pointe project includes CIDH piles for support of the proposed
buildings and site retaining walls. The piles will transfer loads through the existing
fill and into the underlying sedimentary bedrock. This will reduce loading of the
existing fills and the slopes that descend from the Romeria Pointe property, as well
as the existing crib wall adjacent to the Villa Romeria condominium building, and
the existing retaining wall on the westerly adjacent property.
The existing 1 ½:1 (h:v) fill slopes at the westerly, northerly, and northeasterly
margins of the Romeria Pointe property will be reconstructed at 2: 1 (h:v) gradients
and reinforced with geogrids to improve surficial stability.
BNR Investment and Development, LLC.
Romeria Pointe Apartments, Carlsbad
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W.O. 7297-A3-SC
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Issue No. 3 -Location of the Romeria Pointe Property within an Area Prone to Land
Movement (Appellant Statement)
Several project appellants and public commentators, and the City Council expressed
concern about past land movement in the area surrounding the Romeria Pointe property,
specifically pointing out the slope failure that occurred above the Marbella property in
2005.
GSI Response
A direct comparison between the overall stability of the Marbella and Romeria Pointe
properties cannot be made. The Marbella property is located several thousands of feet to
the west of the Romeria Pointe property and is underlain by a different, and relatively
weaker sedimentary unit (Kennedy and Tan, 2007). In addition, Tan and Giffen (1995)
indicate that the Marbella property has higher susceptibility to landslides than the Romeria
Pointe property. Moreover, L&A (1992) assign a more onerous Land-Use Capability rating
to the Marbella property, as compared to the Romeria Pointe property. Lastly, GSI found
no evidence of deep-seated slope instability within the Romeria Pointe property during our
literature and map reviews nor during our site-specific field work.
Please refer to our response to Issue No. 1 regarding other types of land movement.
Issue No. 4 -Reduced Service Life of Sidewalks (Appellant Statement)
There were concerns voiced by project appellants, public commentators, and some City
Council Members regarding the discussion of a reduced service life of walkways and
sidewalks in GSI (2017 and 2018b).
GSI Response
Sidewalks are considered ancillary site improvements, which on residential projects, are
not held to the same performance standards as buildings, because distress to such from
soil deformations do not constitute a site stability issue. When considering the
performance of sidewalks throughout Carlsbad, an inventory of hundreds of examples of
distressed sidewalks, caused by settlement, creep, expansive soils, and root intrusion,
could be produced. Remedial measures could be implemented as part of any proposed
sidewalk/walkway construction, associated with the Romeria Pointe project, to reasonably
extend their service life, depending on the owners/developers' tolerances for distress.
Curbs and sidewalks would also be built to "Green book" /City of Carlsbad standards within
the public right-of-way.
BNR Investment and Development, LLC.
Romeria Pointe Apartments, Carlsbad
File:e:\wp12\7200\7297a3.grt GeoSoils, Inc.
W.O. 7297-A3-SC
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Issue No. 5 -Increased Building Height From 3 to 4 Stories
Several project appellants and some City Council members expressed concern regarding
a difference between the number of building stories shown on the development plans and
those described in the 2017 geotechnical update report (GSI, 2017).
GSI Response
When GSI prepared our 2017 geotechnical update report, the Romeria Pointe apartment
buildings were proposed as two-(2-) to three-(3-) story structures. Following the issuance
of this report, the proposed building heights were raised up to four (4) stories. This change
in building height does not fundamentally alter our conclusions and recommendations for
the Romeria Pointe project, since CIDH piles have been used to support much taller
buildings, including mid-rise structures as well as larger heavier structures, such as bridges
and public facilities. As with all projects that incorporate CIDH piles, the structural capacity
of the piles will be further evaluated during the preparation of project construction
documents to ensure that the pile design is adequate to support the vertical and lateral
loading conditions.
Issue No. 6 -Quality of Soil Within the Romeria Pointe Property Requiring Unusual
Pile Supports (Appellant Statement)
Several public commentators and some City Council Members expressed their opinion that
using CIDH piles for support of the proposed Romeria Pointe apartment buildings and site
retaining walls was an unusual form of engineering mitigation.
GSI Response
Remedial earthwork, involving the removal and recompaction of low-density soils to
control settlement, is commonly used for hillside development within the City of Carlsbad
when there is a relatively thin cover of potentially compressible soils overlying bedrock
materials, and when there is sufficient space within a property to conduct excavation and
to stockpile the excavated earth materials. However, potentially compressible earth
materials within the Romeria Pointe property extend to depths as great as 35 feet below
the existing grade. Because of this condition and the limited space available within the
Romeria Pointe property for deep remedial excavations, full-depth remedial grading would
require extensive shoring with lateral restraining elements (tiebacks) that would extend
onto neighboring property at some locations, and would likely not be approved by the City
of Carlsbad. In addition, if there is insufficient space to temporarily stockpile the excavated
materials while the remedial excavation(s) progress, the soil would need to be hauled away
from the site and brought to a temporary storage yard, and then delivered back to the site
when the remedial excavation is ready to receive backfill. Alternatively, the excavated
materials would be exported to another construction site, requiring that the backfill soils
be imported from other construction sites or quarries. Thus, full-depth remedial grading
may not be practical from both logistical and financial perspectives. It also may not meet
BNR Investment and Development, LLC.
Romeria Pointe Apartments, Carlsbad
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"Green" building standards. As such, it would be "unusual" for the owner/developer to
implement this type of mitigation at the Romeria Pointe site.
In-situ ground improvement techniques, such as compaction grouting and dynamic deep
compaction are other forms of treatment for thick unsuitable soil conditions, but are not
considered appropriate for the Romeria Pointe site. Compaction grouting of clayey or
fine-graited fill soils may not be practical and may increase lateral pressures on adjacent
slopes. This could damage adjacent, offsite improvements or reduce the effectiveness of
the mitigation. The vibrations created by dynamic deep compaction could damage the
nearby properties.
CIDH piles are commonly used to transfer structural loads through potentially
compressible soils and into suitable bearing earth materials when remedial grading is not
practical or feasible. This type of remedial measure is less invasive than full-depth
remedial grading and will provide adequate support of the proposed buildings and the site
retaining walls.
In summary, it is common building industry practice to use CIDH piles for building support.
As such, this mitigation measure should not be viewed as unusual. In fact, the currently
proposed pile foundations and pile-supported shoring are often implemented for in-fill type
projects and considered appropriate for the Romeria Pointe project.
LIMITATIONS
Inasmuch as our study is based upon our review and engineering analyses and laboratory
data, the conclusions and recommendations are professional opinions. These opinions
have been derived in accordance with current standards of practice, and no warranty,
either express or implied, is given. Standards of practice are subject to change with time.
GSI assumes no responsibility or liability for work or testing performed by others, or their
inaction; or work performed when GSI is not requested to be onsite, to evaluate if our
recommendations have been property implemented. Use of this report constitutes an
agreement and consent by the user to all the limitations outlined above, notwithstanding
any other agreements that may be in place. In addition, this report may be subject to
review by the controlling authorities. Thus, this report brings to completion our scope of
services for this project.
BNR Investment and Development, LLC.
Romeria Pointe Apartments, Carlsbad
File:e:\wp12\7200\7297a3.grt GeoSoits, Inc.
W.O. 7297-A3-SC
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The opportunity to be of service is appreciated. If you should have any questions, please
do not hesitate to contact our office.
Respectfully submi
GeoSoils, Inc.
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Attachments:
Distribution:
Appendix A -References
Appendix B -June 11, 2019 City of Carlsbad Council Hearing Minutes
and Mr. John Allen's Notes
Appendix C -Geotechnical Background Summary for Romeria Pointe
Appendix D -Geotechnical Background Summary for Villa Romeria
(2) Addressee (wet signed)
(1) Streamline Development, Attention: Mr. John Allen (via email)
BNR Investment and Development, LLC.
Romeria Pointe Apartments, Carlsbad
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W.O. 7297-A3-SC
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APPENDIX A
REFERENCES
GeoSoils, Inc.
APPENDIX A
REFERENCES
Benton Engineering, Inc., 1970, Project no. 70-1-50, County permit no. L5548, final report
on compacted ground, Lots 330 to 382, inclusive, Lots 389 to 394, inclusive,
Lots 400 to 410, inclusive, certain street areas of La Costa South Unit No. 5, also
certain offsite areas adjacent to Lots 368 to 370, inclusive and Lots 377 to 379,
inclusive, San Diego County, California, dated October 19.
__ , 1969, Project no. 69-9-8C, preliminary soils investigation, La Costa South Unit
Nos. 5, 6 and 7, east of the intersection of La Costa Avenue and El Camino Real,
San Diego County, California, dated November 7.
California Building Standards Commission, 2016, California Building Code, California Code
of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2, Volume 2 of 2, based on the 2015 International
Building Code, 2016 California Historical Building code, Title 24, Part 8, 2016
California Existing Building Code, Title 24, Part 10, and the 2015 International
Existing Building Code.
Catlin and Company, Inc., 1984a, Project no. 20C6O(6), Addendum to report of compacted
filled ground, proposed 5 unit condominium project, east [sic] side of Romeria
Street and north of La Costa Avenue, Carlsbad, California, dated November 30.
__ , 1984b, Project no. 20C6O(5), report of compacted filled ground, proposed 5 unit
condominium project, east [sic] side of Romeria Street and north of La Costa
Avenue, Carlsbad, California, dated August 20.
__ , 1984c, Project no. 20C6D(2), second addendum to report of soils investigation,
proposed 5 unit condominium, east [sic] side of Romeria Street and north of La
Costa Avenue, Carlsbad, California, City of Carlsbad project no. PE2.8421, drawing
no. 240-2, dated June 26.
__ , 1984d, Project no. 20C6O(1), addendum to report of soils investigation, proposed
5 unit condominium, east [sic] side of Romeria Street and north of La Costa Avenue,
Carlsbad, California, dated February 2.
__ , Project no. 20C6D, report of soils investigation, proposed 5 unit condominium, west
side of Romeria Street and north of La Costa Avenue, Carlsbad, California, dated
December 21.
Catlin Engineering Associates, Inc., 1998a, Project no. 1147H1C, relocation of small
diameter piles, 7551-7559 Romeria Street, Carlsbad, California, dated July 23.
GeoSolls, Inc.
__ , 1984b, Project no. 1147H1C, Rehabilitation of residence, 7551-7559RomeriaStreet,
Carlsbad, California, dated July 20.
__ , 1998c, Project no. 114 7H 1 C, Rehabilitation of residence, 7551-7559 Romeria Street,
Carlsbad, California, dated February 9.
__ , 1996, Project no. 1147H1 C, limited site and structural investigation and manometer
survey, existing residential unit site, 7551-7559 Romeria Street, Carlsbad, California,
dated October 7.
East County Soil Consultation and Engineering, Inc., 2001, Limited site investigation,
Proposed 4-unit townhouse, Southwest corner of Gibraltar Street and Romeria
Street, City of Carlsbad, California, Project no. 01-114 7H1 , dated May 10.
Eisenberg, LI., 1983, Pleistocene marine terrace and Eocene geology of the Encinitas and
Rancho Santa Fe quadrangles, plate 3 of 3, scale: 1 inch = 2,200 feet; On the
Manner of Deposition of the Eocene Strata in Northern San Diego County, Abbot, P .L.
ed., dated April 13, 1985, by San Diego Association of Geologists.
GeoSoils, Inc., 2018a, Geotechnical response to City of Carlsbad review comments dated
October 19, 2018, Romeria Pointe Apartments, 7527 Romeria Street, Carlsbad,
San Diego County, California 92009, Assessor's Parcel Numbers (APNs) 216-300-12
& -13, City of Carlsbad Project No.: SDP2018-0004, W.O. 7297-A2-SC, dated
December 6.
__ , 2018b, Geotechnical review of title sheet and preliminary grading plans for: Romeria
Pointe, 7527 Romeria Street, Carlsbad, San Diego County, California 92009,
Assessor's Parcel Numbers (APNs) 216-300-12 & -13, W.O. 7297-A1-SC, dated
September 12.
__ , 2017, Geotechnical update evaluation, Romeria Pointe, multi-family residential
development, Assessor's Parcel Numbers (APNs) 216-300-12 & -13, Carlsbad,
San Diego County, California, W.O. 7297-A-SC, dated November 21.
__ , 2007a, Final geotechnical review offoundation (drilled pier and post-tensioned slab)
plans, notes, and details, Romeria Pointe Townhomes, Carlsbad, San Diego
County, California, W.O. 4460-A6-SC, dated November 14.
, 2007b, Geotechnical review of structural plans, Romeria Pointe Townhomes,
Carlsbad, San Diego County, California, W.0. 4460-A4-SC, dated February 22.
__ , 2006a, Memorandum: General discussion of recent cone penetration tests,
Building A, Romeria Point, Carlsbad, California, W.O. 4460-A3-SC, dated
October 13.
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Appendix A
Page 2
__ , 2006b, Revised geotechnical review of grading, post-tension foundation, and
structural plans, Romeria Pointe Townhomes, Carlsbad, San Diego County,
California, W.O. 4460-A3-SC, dated July 26.
__ , 2006c, Geotechnical review of grading, post-tension foundation, and structural
plans, Romeria Pointe Townhomes, Carlsbad, San Diego County, California,
W.O. 4460-A3-SC, dated July 21.
__ , 2005, Geotechnical review of post-tension foundation and structural plans, Romeria
Pointe Townhomes, Carlsbad, San Diego County, California, W.O. 4460-A1-SC,
dated March 8.
__ , 2004, Preliminary geotechnical evaluation, Romeria Pointe, APNs 216-300-12
and -13, Carlsbad, San Diego County, California, W.O. 4460-A-SC, dated
September 27.
Helfrich-Associates, 2014a, Completion report, foundation stabilization, project no. 140419,
Sue Ortman property, 7551 Romeria Street, Carlsbad, CA 92009, dated June 17.
__ , 2014b, Foundation repair plan, 7551 Romeria Street, Carlsbad, CA 92009, 6 sheets,
no scale, dated May 1.
__ , 2014c, Foundation stabilization recommendations, Sue Ortman property,
7551 Romeria Street, Carlsbad, CA 92009, project no. 140419, dated May 1.
Kennedy, M.P., and Tan, SS., 2007, Geologic map of the Oceanside 30' by 60' quadrangle,
California, regional map series, scale 1 : 100,000, California Geologic Survey and
United States Geological Survey, www.conservation.ca.gov/
cgs/rghm/rgm/preliminary _geologic_ maps.html
Leighton and Associates, Inc., 1992, City of Carlsbad geotechnical hazards analysis and
mapping study, Carlsbad, California, 115 sheets, scale: 1 inch = 400 feet, dated
November.
Neuendorf, K.K.E., Mehl, J.P. Jr, and Jackson, J.A., eds, 2005, Glossary of geology, fifth
edition, American Geological Institute, Alexandria, Virginia.
MLB Engineering, 2019, Preliminary grading plan for: Romeria Pointe, 7527 Romeria
Street, APN 216-300-12 & -13, 3 sheets, various scales dated January 9.
Park Aerial Surveys, Inc., 1953, Stereoscopic aerial photographs, flight: AXN-8M, frame
nos.: 17 and 18, dated April 11.
Rick Engineering Company, 1970, Grading plans for: La Costa South, Unit No. 5, sheet 3
of 5, 40-scale, County of San Diego Grading Permit No.: L 5548, revision dated
March 27.
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Appendix A
Page 3
Soil Pacific Inc., 2003, Addendum report and clarification letter, proposed nine unit
condominium, Lots 392 and 393 of [La] Costa South, Unit no. 5, City of Carlsbad,
California, Project no. A-2452-03, dated August 25.
Tan, S.S. and Giffen, D.G., 1995, Landslide hazards in the northern part of the San Diego
metropolitan area, San Diego County, California, DMG open file report 95-04,
landslide hazard identification map no. 35, relative landslide susceptibility and
landslide distribution map, plate 35E, 1 :24,000 scale.
Vinje and Middleton Engineering, Inc., 2000, As-graded compaction report and foundation
recommendations for proposed 11 unit condominium project, City of Carlsbad
drawing #377-4A, project #CT 98-08, located off Romeria Street, job no.: 99-317-F,
dated December 6.
__ , 1998, Preliminary geotechnical investigation, proposed 11-unit condominium
project, Lots 387 & 388 of La Costa South Unit No. 5, City of Carlsbad, California,
job no.: 98-255-P, dated July 17.
BNR Investment and Development, LLC. •
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Appendix A
Page 4
APPENDIX B
JUNE 11, 2019 CITY OF CARLSBAD COUNCIL HEARING
MINUTES AND MR. JOHN ALLEN'S NOTES
GeoSoils, Inc.
CITY COUNCIL
Minutes
June 11, 2019 4 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER: 4:14 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Hall, Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Schumacher, Hamilton.
Council Chamber
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CONCURRENT MEETINGS: Mayor Hall announced the City Council will be
serving as the Public Financing Authority Board of Directors on Consent Calendar Item No. 7.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION: None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Minutes of the Special Meeting held May 14, 2019.
Minutes of the Regular Meeting held May 14, 2019.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Blackburn, to approve the
minutes as presented. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
Mayor Hall announced that the City Council would be taking items out of order. At 5:40 p.m. a
recess will be declared and at 6:00 p.m. the proclamations and presentations would be made.
PUBLIC REPORT OF ACTION TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Michael Kim spoke regarding trail access and the need to pay more attention to the demographics
and issues of mountain bikers and bike riders.
Mary Lucid spoke regarding issues surrounding the senior center and the need to manage funds
properly for the senior center.
Laurie Boone spoke in appreciation of Magee Park and the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park.
Laurenn Barker spoke in support of adding a full-time Public Arts Coordinator to the budget for
the Library and Cultural Arts Department.
Louisa & Tabitha Evans spoke regarding speeding traffic on Tamarack Avenue and the need for
further traffic regulations during and outside school hours.
June 11, 2019 Carlsbad City Council Meeting Page2
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Blackburn, to approve
Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 thru 11. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
1. PURCHASE OF EXCESS LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE -Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-
074 approving the purchase of $43 million of excess liability coverage through California
Insurance Pool Authority (CIPA) for Fiscal Year 2019-2020 in an amount not to exceed
$553,714. (Staff contact: Ed Garbo, Risk Management)
2. PURCHASE OF PROPERTY INSURANCE COVERAGE -Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-075
authorizing the purchase of $1 billion of property insurance coverage through Alliant
Insurance Services lnc.'s Alliant Property Insurance Program (APIP) for Fiscal Year 2019-2020
in an amount not to exceed $233,014. (Staff contact: Ed Garbo, Risk Management)
3. RESCIND CITY COUNCIL OPPOSITION TO AB 392 (WEBER) PEACE OFFICERS: DEADLY FORCE -
Rescinded City Council opposition to AB 392 (Weber) Peace officers: deadly force. (Staff
contact: Jason Haber, City Manager Department)
4. SUMMARY VACATION OF PIPELINE EASEMENT, CT 13-03-Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-
076 summarily vacating a pipeline easement over Lots 9, 10, 12, 14 thru 17, and 22 of Map
No. 16091, located at Robertson Ranch West Village, Case Name: Robertson Ranch West
Village, Case No. VAC 2019-0004. (Staff contact: Kyrenne Chua, Community & Economic
Development)
5. SUMMARY VACATION OF PIPELINE EASEMENT, CT 13-03 -Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-
077 summarily vacating a pipeline easement over Lots 339 and 347 of Map No. 16092, located
at Robertson Ranch West Village, Case Name: Robertson Ranch West Village, Case No. VAC
2019-0003. {Staff contact: Kyrenne Chua, Community & Economic Development)
6. SUMMARY VACATION OF DRAINAGE EASEMENT -Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-078
summarily vacating a public drainage easement over Lot 9 of CT 85-35, Aviara Phase 1 Unit A
located at 7130 Kingfisher Lane, Case Name: Four Seasons Residence Club, Case No. VAC
2017-0008. {Staff contact: David Rick, Community & Economic Development)
7. REJECTION OF ALL BIDS RECEIVED FOR THE CROSSINGS AT CARLSBAD MUNICIPAL GOLF
COURSE LAKE REFURBISHMENT PROJECT-Adoption of Public Financing Authority Resolution
No. 78 rejecting all bids received for the Crossings at Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course Lake
Refurbishment Project (Contract No. PWS 19-690 PKS). (Staff contact: Kyle Lancaster, Parks
& Recreation)
8. PURCHASE OF FIVE MARKED POLICE VEHICLES -Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-079
authorizing the purchase of five fully outfitted Ford Police Interceptor vehicles from Jones-
West Ford, in an amount not to exceed $337,372. (Staff contact: Cindy Anderson, Police)
June 11, 2019 carlsbad City Council Meeting Page3
9. AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES WITH DEL TAWRX, LLC-Adoption of Resolution No.
2019-080 approving a two-year agreement for consulting services with DELTAWRX, LLC in an
amount not to exceed $325,182 to aid the city in acquiring a new public safety computer
aided dispatch (CAD) system. (Staff contact: Cindy Anderson, Police)
10. AUTHORIZE PURCHASE OF REPLACEMENT AMBULANCE AND TWO UTILITY TRUCKS -
Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-081 authorizing the purchase of one replacement
ambulance for $249,060 and two replacement utility trucks for $112,910. (Staff contact:
Shawn Gaskari, Public Works)
11. AUTHORIZE AGREEMENT WITH ARCADIS U.S., INC. AND AUTHORIZE AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO
THE AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF VISTA-Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-082 authorizing
execution of an agreement with Arcadis U.S., Inc. to provide construction management and
inspection services for the Agua Hedionda Sewer Lift Station, Vista/Carlsbad interceptor
sewer reaches VC11B-VC15 and recycled water line, Capital Improvement Program Project
Nos. 3492, 3886 and 3949, in an amount not to exceed $423,589 and appropriating $965,768
in additional funds from the Sewer Connection Fee Fund for changes to the project; and,
Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-083 authorizing execution of Amendment No. 3 to the
agreement between the City of Carlsbad and the City of Vista for the construction of the Agua
Hedionda Sewer Lift Station, Vista/Carlsbad interceptor sewer reaches VC11B-VC15 and
recycled water line, Capital Improvement Program Project Nos. 3492, 3886 and 3949. (Staff
contact: Babaq Taj, Public Works)
ORDINANCE FOR INTRODUCTION: None.
ORDINANCE FOR ADOPTION: None.
PUBLIC HEARING:
12. APPEAL OF PLANNING COMMISSION DECISION TO APPROVE ROMERIA POINTE APARTMENTS
PROJECT Adoption of a Resolution denying the appeal and upholding the decision of the
Planning Commission to approve a Site Development Plan to construct a four-story, 23-unit
residential apartment project which includes three affordable, rent restricted housing units,
on property generally located at the southwest corner of Romeria Street and Gibraltar Street
within Local Facilities Management Zone 6. Case Name: Romeria Pointe Apartments, Case
No. SOP 2018-0004 (DEV2017-0151) (Staff contact: Chris Garcia, Community & Economic
Development)
City Manager's Recommendation: Take public input, close the public hearing, and adopt the
Resolution.
Associate Planner Chris Garcia, City Planner Don Neu and Engineering Manager Jason Geldert
presented the report and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file in the Office of the City
Clerk).
Mayor Hall opened the duly noticed Public Hearing at 4:48 p.m.
June 11, 2019 Carlsbad City Council Meeting Page4
Speakers in opposition of City Managers recommendation: Jerry Surdy,· Susan Ortman; Laura
Knight; Jay Brown; Nancy Stuard; Jason Stephenson; Beth Citrano representing a group: (Chad
Peck; Gabe Citrano; Samantha Miller; Kay Colvin); Quentin Citrano; Chris Shea; Thomas
Citrano; Lucille Lindsey; Eileen Donovan; Carol Carrasco.
Submitted speaker cards in opposition of City Mangers recommendation; however, did not
speak: Tetyana Pelypenko; Heather Lindsey.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Hall closed the duly noticed Public Hearing at
5:37 p.m.
RECESS:
Mayor Hall declared a recess at 5:38 p.m.
Mayor Hall reconvened the meeting at 6:00 p.m. for the presentations portion of the meeting.
PRESENTATIONS:
Proclamation in recognition of Carlsbad Historic Preservation Month
Council Member Blackburn presented a proclamation to Deputy Library Director Suzanne
Smithson and Chairman of the Historic Preservation Commission Chad Majer in recognition of
Carlsbad Historic Preservation Month.
Third Grade Art Contest Presentation
Mayor Hall introduced Deputy Library Director Suzanne Smithson who acknowledged the
winners of the art contest.
RECESS:
Mayor Hall declared a recess at 6:10 p.m. to allow the recipients of the proclamations an
opportunity to exit the Council Chamber.
Mayor Hall reconvened the meeting at 6:14 p.m.
CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO.12:
12. APPEAL OF PLANNING COMMISSION DECISION TO APPROVE ROMERIA POINTE APARTMENTS
PROJECT Adoption of a Resolution denying the appeal and upholding the decision of the
Planning Commission to approve a Site Development Plan to construct a four-story, 23-unit
residential apartment project which includes three affordable, rent restricted housing units,
on property generally located at the southwest corner of Romeria Street and Gibraltar Street
within Local Facilities Management Zone 6. Case Name: Romeria Pointe Apartments, Case
No. SDP 2018-0004 (DEV2017-0151} (Staff contact: Chris Garcia, Community & Economic
Development)
June 11, 2019 Carlsbad City Council Meeting . Pages
Oty Manager's Recommendation: Take public input, close the public hearing, and adopt the
Resolution.
Associate Planner Chris Garcia, City Planner Don Neu and Engineering Manager Jason Geldert
presented the report and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file in the Office of the City
Clerk).
Council Member Schumacher stated that the City Council can modify the Planning
Commission's decision based on substantial evidence regarding public health concerns. She
stated that she would like to put together a motion to uphold the appeal but requests that
the developer go through a CEQA analysis and then bring the item back to the Planning
Commission for a decision.
City Attorney Celia Brewer suggested a short recess to further articulate the proper motion
by Council Member Schumacher.
RECESS:
Mayor Hall declared a recess at 7:00 p.m.
Mayor Hall reconvened the meeting at 7:05 p.m.
Minute Motion by Council Member Schumacher, seconded by Council Member Blackburn,
remanding the item to the Planning Commission and requesting a CEQA analysis and an EIR
focused on traffic and geotechnical be performed on the project. Motion carried, 4/1 (Hall -
No)
13. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE SALE OF CITY PROPERTY LOCATED AT 3701 CATALINA DRIVE -
Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-084 taking final action and authorizing the execution of a
purchase and sale agreement for city property located at 3701 Catalina Drive, APN 167-154-
20, commonly known as Old Fire Station No. 3, to Charles Colletti. (Staff contact: Curtis
Jackson, Real Estate)
City Manager's Recommendation: Take public input, close the public hearing, and adopt the
Resolution.
Real Estate Manager Curtis Jackson and Community Services Deputy City Manager Gary
Barberio presented the report and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file in the Office
of the City Clerk).
Mayor Hall opened the duly noticed Public Hearing at 7:45 p.m.
Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Hall closed the Public Hearing at 7:45 p.m.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Blackburn, to adopt
Resolution No. 2019-084. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
June 11, 2019 carlsbad City Council Meeting Page6
DEPARTMENTAL AND CITY MANAGER REPORTS:
14. CARLSBAD TOURISM BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT REPORT -Adoption of Resolution
No. 2019-085 approving the Report of the Carlsbad Tourism Business Improvement District
(CTBID) and continuing the CTBID programs and assessments for Fiscal Year 2019-20. (Staff
contact: Cheryl Gerhardt, Administrative Services)
City Manager's Recommendation: Adopt the Resolution.
Finance Manager Cheryl Gerhardt and Administrative Services Deputy City Manager Laura
Rocha presented the report and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file in the Office of
the City Clerk).
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Blackburn, to adopt
Resolution No. 2019-085. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
15. CARLSBAD GOLF LODGING BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT REPORT -Adoption of
Resolution No. 2019-086 approving the Report of the Carlsbad Golf Lodging Business
Improvement District (CGLBID) and continuing the CGLBID programs and assessments for
Fiscal Year 2019-20. (Staff contact: Cheryl Gerhardt, Administrative Services)
City Manager's Recommendation: Adopt the Resolution.
Finance Manager Cheryl Gerhardt and Administrative Services Deputy City Manager Laura
Rocha presented the report and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file in the Office of
the City Clerk).
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Blackburn, to adopt
Resolution No. 2019-086. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
16. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AND CONTRACT FOR FIRST-LAST MILE
TRANSPORTATION SERVICE PILOT PROGRAM -Adoption of Resolution No. 2019-087
approving a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) among the City of Carlsbad, North
County Transit District (NCTD) and San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) for the
purpose of executing a first-last mile transportation pilot program and authorizing the City
Manager to execute an agreement with RideCo, Inc. to provide first-last mile transportation
services in an amount not to exceed $650,000. (Staff contact: Christie Marcella, Community
& Economic Development)
Oty Manager's Recommendation: Adopt the Resolution.
Economic Development Manager Christie Marcella presented the report and reviewed a
PowerPoint presentation (on file in the Office of the City Clerk).
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Blackburn, to adopt
Resolution No. 2019-087. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
June 11, 2019 Carlsbad City Council Meeting Page 7
17. PRESENTATION ON TRAFFIC CONTROL TRAFFIC CALMING AND TRAFFIC SAFETY-Receive an
informational presentation describing traffic control, traffic calming and traffic safety efforts
including best practices, standards and programs, and provide direction to staff as
appropriate. (Staff contact: Marshall Plantz, Public Works)
City Manager's Recommendation: Receive the presentation and provide direction to staff.
Transportation Director Marshall Plantz, Senior Engineer John Kim and Police Lieutenant
Christie Calderwood presented the report and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file
in the Office of the City Clerk).
Steve Linke representing a group (Kris Wright; Linda Schlesinger; Jan Neff-Sincair) requested
that the City Council empower the Traffic Safety Commission to execute traffic actions or have
them recommend traffic issues directly to the City Council.
Brenda Harai spoke in support of more traffic regulations on Tamarack Avenue.
Quinn Bodon stated that he does not feel safe on Tamarack Avenue and that as a student he
feels his safety is a concern. He also suggested having a stop sign installed.
Minute Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Hamilton, to
perform a comprehensive traffic calming analysis to include what types of traffic calming
measures are currently used in the region, research new approaches to traffic calming and
report what measures are commonly used in the City of Carlsbad. Motion carried
unanimously, 5/0.
Minute Motion by Council Member Blackburn, seconded by Council Member Schumacher,
that staff explore other ideas for traffic calming at the intersection of Tamarack and Valley
since staff determined that a stop sign was not appropriate. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
Minute Motion by Council Member Schumacher, seconded by Council Member Hamilton, for
staff to bring back an analysis of changing the physical character specifically for traffic calming
on the following streets: College Boulevard from Carlsbad Village Drive to Sage Creek High
School, Tamarack Avenue from Skyline Road in the east to Carlsbad Boulevard in the west,
and Carlsbad Boulevard from the Agua Hedionda Trailhead to the roundabout at State Street.
Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
18. DISCUSSION OF THE COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO'S MCCLELLAN-PALOMAR AIRPORT MASTER
PLAN UPDATE AND CONSIDERATION OF A CITY COUNCIL POSITION ON THE SAN DIEGO
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS' PREFERRED D-111 MODIFIED STANDARDS COMPLIANCE
ALTERNATIVE FUTURE AIRPORT CLASSIFICATION, ALLOWING A RUNWAY EXTENSION UP TO
800 FEET -1.) Engage in a public discussion of the County of San Diego's McClellan-Palomar
Airport Master Plan Update; 2.) Consider taking a position on the San Diego County Board of
Supervisors' preferred D-111 Modified Standards Compliance Alternative future airport
June 11, 2019 Carlsbad City Council Meeting Page8
classification, allowing a runway extension up to 800 feet; and 3.) Approve a motion to
rescind the City Council's May 7, 2019, approval of a Minute Motion to oppose the San Diego
County Board of Supervisors' selected classification for McClellan-Palomar Airport. (Staff
contact: Jason Haber, City Manager Department)
City Manager's Recommendation: Engage in discussion of the County of San Diego's
McClellan-Palomar Airport Master Plan Update, consider taking a position on the San Diego
County Board of Supervisors' preferred D-111 Modified Standards Compliance Alternative
future airport classification and approve a motion to rescind the City Council's May 7, 2019
approval of a Minute Motion to oppose the San Diego County Board of Supervisors' selected
classification for McClellan-Palomar Airport.
Assistant to the City Manager Jason Haber presented the report and reviewed a PowerPoint
presentation (on file in the Office of the City Clerk).
RECESS:
Mayor Hall declared a recess at 9:12 p.m.
Mayor Hall reconvened the meeting at 9:14 p.m.
Pierre Weinandt spoke in opposition to any airport expansion.
Michelle Saint Germain also spoke in opposition to any airport expansion.
Noel Breen, expressed concerns relating to conflicts of interests regarding the City Council and
the decision on the airport expansion.
Larry Posner stated that the Palomar Airport is a County of San Diego Airport and is regulated
by the Federal Aviation Administration. He stated that the issues at Palomar Airport should
be handled by the County of San Diego. He also spoke on potential conflicts of interests
regarding the City Council and the decision on the airport expansion.
Kristine Wright representing a group (Jan Neff-Sinclair; Diane Rivera; Mary Lucid) also spoke
in opposition to any expansion of Palomar Airport.
Hope Nelson for Citizens for a Friendly Airport spoke in opposition to an airport expansion.
Minute Motion by Council Member Schumacher, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Bhat-Patel, to
rescind Council's Minute Motion to oppose the San Diego County Board of Supervisor's
selected alternative for the McClellan-Palomar Airport. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
Minute Motion by Council Member Schumacher, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, to
direct staff to return to Council with a resolution opposing the County Board of Supervisor's
preferred D-111 modified standards compliance alternative allowing a runway extension of up
to 800-feet. Motion carried, 4/1. (Hall-No).
June 11, 2019 Carlsbad City Council Meeting Page9
Minute Motion by Council Member Schumacher, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Bhat-Patel, to
direct staff to return to Council with a resolution supporting the B-11 enhanced alternative
without a runway extension. -Motion carried, 3/2. (Hall, Blackburn -No).
City Attorney Celia Brewer stated that a group named 'The Citizens for a Friendly Airport' filed
a lawsuit against the City of Carlsbad and the County of San Diego challenging the legality of
the approval of the settlement agreement between the parties. Since there is pending
litigation she suggested that Items No. 19 and No. 20 be continued with the commitment that
City Council will return with Item 20 with enough time to place an advisory or ballot measure
on the March, 2020 ballot.
19. CITY COUNCIL INTERPRETATION OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 172 TO OPERATE THE
EXISTING PALOMAR AIRPORT FACILITY AND CARLSBAD MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 21.53.015
-VOTER AUTHORIZATION REQUIRED FOR AIRPORT EXPANSION -That the City Council
consider articulating its explicit interpretation of Conditional Use Permit 172 and Carlsbad
Municipal Code Section 21.53.015. (Staff contact: Jason Haber, City Manager Department)
City Manager's Recommendation: That the City Council articulate its interpretation of
Conditional Use Permit 172 and Carlsbad Municipal Code Section 21.53.015.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Blackburn, to continue
Item No. 19 to a date uncertain. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
20. MARCH 2020 PRIMARY ELECTION BALLOT: ADVISORY QUESTION REGARDING THE
MCCLELLAN-PALOMAR AIRPORT MASTER PLAN UPDATE AND FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORT -Discuss placing an advisory question regarding the McClellan-Palomar
Airport Master Plan Update and Final Environmental Impact Report, in total, on the March
2020 primary election ballot, and provide direction to staff. (Staff contact: Jason Haber, City
Manager Department)
Cty Manager's Recommendation: Discuss placing an advisory question regarding the
McClellan-Palomar Airport Master Plan Update and Final Environmental Impact Report on
the March 2020 Primary Election ballot and provide direction to staff.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Blackburn, to continue
Item No. 20 to a date uncertain. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
COUNCIL REPORTS AND COMMENTS:
Minute Motion by Council Member Hamilton, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, to place
on the June 25, 2019 agenda, an item to discuss a time-bound moratorium regarding building
and development in the Village and Barrio Master Plan area. -Motion carried 3/0/2 (Hall,
Schumacher -Absent).
Minute Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Schumacher, for
the City Manager to return to Council with a proclamation declaring June of every year starting
June 11, 2019 Carlsbad City Council Meeting Page 10
this year to be celebrated as Pride Month honoring the LGBTQIA community in the City of
Carlsbad. -Motion carried unanimously, S/0.
Minute Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Hamilton, for the
City Manager to return to City Council with information related to the contracted workforce
regarding job quality standards, working conditions, and compliance requirements. -Motion
carried 4/1 (Hall -No).
PUBLIC COMMENT: Continuation of the Public Comments
Raul Villamar spoke regarding the ineffectiveness of speed humps and recommended speed
bumps instead. He also spoke about vehicle accidents and traffic concerns on Harding Street and
Oak Avenue.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS: City Manager Scott Chadwick announced that the June 18, 2019
City Council meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m.
CITY ATTORNEY COMMENTS: None.
CITY CLERK COMMENTS: None.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Mayor Hall adjourned the duly noticed Meeting at 10:08 p.m.
~
Hector Gomez
Deputy City Clerk
MR. JOHN ALLEN'S NOTES FROM THE
JUNE 11, 2019 CITY COUNCIL HEARING
GeoSoils, Inc.
Geotechnical Concerns
Appellant
• Proven instability of the land of this area
• Slippage and land movement to the south
• This is prone to land movement
• Sidewalks and driveways will have to be replaced within 3 years of development
• 3 stories, not 4, is stated in the report
• Concerned for the building to the south will be compromised
• Quality of the soil is not adequate to hold the buildings, and it is unusual to have piles
supporting the buildings according to the engineer
Public
• Jason Stevenson, Geologist
o Geologist speaker said 3 stories, not 4 stories
o Adjacent to the South tenant, discussed the slippage that occurred in 2015
o Discussed Marbella disaster
• Beth Citrano
o 3 stories in report, not 4 stories
o Periodic replacement of sidewalks and driveways, that may cause trip hazards within 1
year following installation. This is a public safety risk
• Lucille Lindsay
o Slippage issue
• Eileen Donovan
o Next door with the slippage issues
o Marbella was brought up
Cori Schumacher
• The extent of grading and geotechnical work means it is not environmentally benign
• Reports don't seem to be taking into consideration the cumulative impacts
• Categorical exemption shall not be used where there is a possibility that there will be a
significant effect on the environment due to "unusual circumstances"
Barbara Hamilton
• Discussion regarding unusual circumstances, concerned about detrimental circumstances on
surrounding properties
• Issues with hardscaping around the property, that should be considered an unusual
circumstance
Keith Blackburn
• Sidewalks and driveways with a short life span is an issue?
Priya Bhat-Patel
• Movement of neighboring land was brought up
• Asked about Marbella project
• Geologist report was based on 3 stories, and not 4 stories
Matt Hall
• None
APPENDIXC
GEOTECHNICAL BACKGROUND SUMMARY
FOR ROMERIA POINTE
GeoSoils, Inc.
APPENDIXC
GEOTECHNICAL BACKGROUND SUMMARY FOR ROMERIA POINTE
The Romeria Pointe property consists of Lots 392 and 393 of the La Costa South, Unit
No. 5 subdivision. According to the original grading plans, prepared by Rick Engineering
Company ([REC], 1970 [see Appendix A]), prior to grading, the Romeria Pointe property
was situated upon a north-facing slope that descended from highlands to the south to the
San Marcos Creek floodplain to the north. A relatively deeply incised, generally
northwesterly trending natural, albeit slightly anthropogenically modified drainage course,
transected the southwesterly corner of Lot 392 and continued through the adjacent
westerly property. The up-gradient portion of this drainage course nearly bisected the
adjacent southerly Lots 390 and 391 (the Villa Romeria property reported by some
appellants and public commentators to have undergone "slippage" as recent as 2014).
REC (1970) shows that cut and fill grading was required to bring the Romeria Pointe
property to its current grades. Maximum planned cuts and fills were on the order of 5 feet
and 22 feet, respectively. Grading also included the construction of manufactured slopes
with heights up to approximately 20 feet and gradients of 1 ½:1 (horizontal:vertical [h:v]).
Prior to original grading, which occurred in 1970, the geotechnical conditions within the
La Costa South, Unit No. 5 subdivision were investigated by Benton Engineering, Inc.
([BEi], 1969). Based on the subsurface and laboratory data BEi compiled, it was
concluded that the most significant geotechnical factors controlling site development
included the occurrence of potentially compressible, loose surficial soils and porous
alluvial deposits, and the presence of expansive soils. BEi made no statement regarding
deep-seated instability or landslide issues associated with the subdivision.
During original grading, BEi performed geotechnical observations and field density testing
as the original ground was prepared and compacted fills were placed. As indicated in their
"Final Report on Compacted Filled Ground" (BEi, 1970), BEi performed 1 O compaction
tests on Lot 392 and 5 compaction tests on Lot 393. BEi (1970) stated that the depth of
fill on Lots 392 and 393 was 33 feet and 20 feet, respectively. The differences between the
planned fill thickness on the original grading plan and the as-built fill thicknesses reported
in BEi (1970) suggest that up to 11 feet of the former surficial soils were removed and
recompacted.
GSI began investigating the Romeria Pointe project site in August 2004 for a previously
proposed multi-family development project. Our initial study (GSI, 2004) included a review
of a subsurface and laboratory data that was previously collected by East County Soil
Consultation and Engineering, Inc. ([ECSC&E], 2001) and by Soil Pacific, Inc. ([SPI],
2003). Due to very limited exploratory subsurface work conducted by ECSC&E and SPI,
GSI performed supplemental subsurface investigation by advancing and down-hole
logging two (2) large-diameter borings. The primary intent of our field work was to
evaluate the approximately 34-year old fill materials, and to check for indications of
instability.
GeoSoils, Inc.
Down-hole logging, is a subsurface investigative technique commonly performed when
slope instability is a concern. It involves lowering a geologist or engineer down a
large-diameter boring so that a continuous log of the geologic conditions and structures
therein can be prepared.
Based on our review of earlier site-specific geotechnical studies, and the subsurface and
laboratory data acquired during our initial site work, it was concluded that the existing fill
materials were not suitable for support of the proposed improvements; the onsite soils
exhibited moderate expansion potential; and the existing 1 ½:1 (h:v) fill slopes retained a
potential for surficial instability in their current condition. Remedial earthwork or supporting
the proposed buildings on cast-in-drilled-hole (CIDH) piles was recommended to address
concerns regarding the settlement potential of the existing fill materials. In addition,
post-tension and mat slabs were recommended for the mitigation of the expansive soil
conditions. Lastly, removing and replacing the outer 10 feet of the existing fill slopes with
geogrid-reinforced fills were recommended to enhance surficial stability.
In 2006, GSI advanced 5 cone penetration test (CPT) soundings to supplement the
previous geotechnical work on the Romeria Pointe site. The purpose of this study was to
further evaluate the thickness of the existing fill materials within the property to assist with
construction cost estimating.
GSI performed a geotechnical update evaluation of the Romeria Pointe property in 2017
relative to a formerly proposed development plan, which included the construction of
two (2), three-story apartment buildings. This study included reviews of the existing,
site-specific geotechnical data, updated site seismicity, and the preparation of a summary
report (GSI, 2017). In GSI (2017), three (3) different alternative earthwork and foundation
support scenarios were recommended, and the advantages and disadvantages of each
measure were discussed. These alternatives included: 1) the complete removal and
recompaction of the earth materials considered unsuitable for supporting the proposed
improvements; 2) the limited removal and recompaction of the unsuitable earth materials
and the utilization of CIDH piles for support of the proposed buildings and site retaining
walls; and 3) the limited removal and recompaction of the unsuitable earth materials, the
utilization of CIDH piles for support of portions of the proposed buildings and the site
retaining walls located near the descending slopes, and the use of vibro piers for
supporting the proposed improvements not subjected to lateral loads. The
recommendations for enhancing the surficial stability of the descending slopes and for the
mitigation of expansive soils were generally similar to those previously included in
GSI (2004). Currently, GSI understands that the project team is pursuing the limited
earthwork and CIDH pile foundation support alternative.
BNR Investment and Development, LLC.
File:e:\wp12\7200\729783.grt GeoSoils, Inc.
Appendix C
Page 2
APPENDIX D
GEOTECHNICAL BACKGROUND SUMMARY
FOR VILLA ROMERIA
GeoSoils, Inc.
APPENDIX D
GEOTECHNICAL BACKGROUND SUMMARY FOR VILLA ROMERIA
Based on our review, the Villa Romeria property consists of Lots 391 and 392 of the
La Costa South, Unit No. 5 subdivision (REC, 1970). According to REC (1970), cut and fill
grading was necessary to achieve the former design grades with maximum planned cuts
and fills on the order of 1 foot and 31 feet, respectively.
Original rough grading of the Villa Romeria property was completed nearly simultaneous
with the Romeria Pointe property (BEi, 1970). According to BEi (1970), approximately
40 to 41 feet of compacted fill was placed within the Villa Romeria Property during the
original phase of site grading, with the deepest fills likely occurring within the former
northerly trending, anthropogenically modified natural drainage course that transected the
westerly margin of the property. A comparison of the original as-graded conditions
reported in BEi (1970) versus the original planned grading shown on REC (1970) suggests
that up to 1 O feet of remedial excavation was performed during this phase of rough
grading.
Beginning in 1983, C&C investigated the Villa Romeria property for a proposed 5-unit
condominium project (C&C, 1983). For this study, C&C reviewed BEi (1970), performed
surficial mapping, and subsurface exploration consisting of the continuous logging of
three (3) test pits excavated to depths of 9 to 12 feet below the (pre-)existing ground
surface with a backhoe. C&C also performed laboratory testing of soil samples collected
during their field work. Through their work, C&C found that the Villa Romeria property
contained a significant amount of silty clay fill with some cobble at depth, that they
concluded was properly placed and compacted, based on their laboratory tests and review
of BEi (1970), with the exception of undocumented fills that extended to depths ranging
between 6½ and 9 feet below the (pre-)existing ground surface. C&C also discovered
erosion on some of the slopes descending from the property and a large surficial slump
on the westerly facing slope, in the vicinity of the two southwesterly condominium units.
In addition, expansion testing performed on collected soil samples indicated the presence
of "critically expansive" soils. C&C did not encounter the presence of groundwater during
their investigation.
It is not clear from the C&C (1983) report if they encountered the formational earth
materials underlying the existing fill soils. Based on our review of the locations and depths
of C&C's test pits relative to the planned grading shown on REC (1970), it is unlikely they
did. Therefore, it is unknown if the original remedial excavations, conducted under the
supervision of BEi (1970), included the removal and recompaction of the pre-existing
low-density soils as well as keying and benching during slope construction.
Based on the their findings, C&C recommended the following:
• Removal and recompaction of any undocumented fills if located below the design
grades for traffic areas or buildings supported by shallow foundations;
GeoSoils, Inc.
• Scarifying (ripping) and recompacting the natural ground within 5 horizontal feet of
the building foundation lines to a minimum depth of 12 inches below the bottom of
the foundations or concrete slab, where constructed partly in cut and partly in fill;
• Using non-expansive soils in the upper 3 to 4 feet below proposed finish grade
elevations or implementing a program that combines subgrade pre-moistening with
more onerous structural design of foundations and slabs-on-grade;
• Designing foundations supported by properly compacted fill or dense natural
ground for settlements estimated to be on the order of ½-inch;
• Constructing cut and fill slopes up to 1 O feet high at 2: 1 (h:v) gradients with
additional evaluation warranted for higher or steeper slopes or systems intended
to support slopes;
• Foundation setbacks from slopes equivalent to H/3 plus 5 feet (maximum 40-foot
setback), where "H" equals the slope height and the use deepened footings that
maintain minimum depths of 1.5D and 2D for foundations adjacent to slopes with
1.5:1 (h:v) and 2:1 (h:v) gradients, respectively, where "D" equals the horizontal
encroachment distance;
• Designing deepened footings for additional lateral pressures where constructed on
or near slopes;
• Embedding footings constructed at the toe of slopes at least 18 inches below the
lowest adjacent level grade; and
• Keying and benching when placing compacting fills on slopes steeper than a
1 0 percent grade.
In early 1984, C&C performed slope stability analysis to evaluate the factor-of-safety (FOS)
against global rotational slope failure for a 20-foot high crib retaining wall (crib wall),
proposed to be constructed at the westerly end of the Villa Romeria property (C&C,
1984d). Based on their analysis, C&C calculated an FOS of 2.8 against global rotational
slope failure. In addition to summarizing their analysis, C&C noted that some of the
proposed structures were too close to the top of the slope or property line to provide for
their recommended 5-foot clearance from the foundation line to the invert of the drainage
swale. To that end C&C recommended that the gradient of the swale be modified to a fall
of three (3) percent with a two (2) percent gradient for all other unlined drainage swales.
C&C also indicated that it may be necessary to add inlets and underground drain pipes if
their recommended steeper gradient for the drainage swale made it impractical to convey
runoff at the surface. In addition, C&C recommended that the toe of the crib wall be
embedded at least 1 foot below the level of the existing terrace or at elevation 72.0 feet
(unknown datum).
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In June 1984, C&C provided alternative recommendations for surface drainage at the north
side of the Villa Romeria project where their previously recommended three (3) percent
slope for a surface drainage swale would make construction and maintenance difficult
(C&C, 1984c). These recommendations included constructing the swale at a gradient of
at least one (1) percent. However, C&C warned that "normal groundskeeping practices"
would probably result in ponding. To that end, C&C recommended the construction of a
french drain in the areas where a three (3) percent slope could not be maintained in the
surface drainage swale. In order to reduce the potential for the migration of fines into the
filter medium of the french drain, C&C recommended the use of clean sand for filter
material.
In August 1984, C&C prepared a compaction report summarizing their observation and
testing services during grading of the Villa Romeria property, which occurred between
July 16 and August 17, 1984 (C&C, 1984b). As reported in C&C (1984b), the observations
and results of compaction testing indicated that the fill soils placed within the Villa Romeria
property were compacted to at least 90 percent of the maximum dry density.
C&C concluded that the compacted fill soil would support the proposed condominium
structure without detrimental settlement provided that the foundations and concrete slabs
were setback at least 5 feet from the top of slopes or deepened such that the minimum
horizontal distance between the bottom, outboard edges of the footings and concrete
slabs, and the face of the descending slope was 5 feet. Because some of the fill soils
placed during grading were considered "critically expansive," C&C recommended that the
developer pre-moisten the upper 3 feet of subgrade soils to 1 to 4 percent above their
optimum moisture content and utilize more onerous structural design for foundations and
slabs-on-grade. C&C also recommended that surface drainage be controlled and
maintained such that it would be directed away from foundations and tops of slopes,
toward the street or drainage facilities without intermediate ponding. Lastly, in capital
letters at the end of C&C (1984b), there is an admonishment regarding the lack of records
pertaining to the repair of a damaged structural member within the crib wall along the
westerly side of the Villa Romeria property that C&C reported and depicted in an
August 3, 1984 letter (letter not available for GSI review). Accordingly, C&C expressed that
they were greatly concerned about the long-term stability of this wall.
C&C prepared a compaction report for a second phase of grading that occurred in
late 1984 (C&C, 1984a) that chiefly involved the backfill of a site retaining wall, located west
of Romeria Street and north of La Costa Avenue. As stated therein, the results of their
compaction tests and observations indicated that the fill placed behind the retaining wall
was compacted to at least 90 percent of the laboratory maximum dry density. C&C
recommended that surface drainage be controlled and maintained such that it was
directed away from foundations and tops of slopes, toward the street or drainage facilities
without intermediate ponding. There was no mention of any repairs of the damaged crib
wall in C&C (1984a). In addition, GSI was not provided with any subsequent observation
and testing documents by C&C regarding the repair of the damaged crib wall nor the
implementation of their recommendations regarding foundation setbacks and the
mitigation of expansive soils.
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In September 1996, Catlin Engineering Associates, Inc. (CEA) conducted a limited site and
structural investigation of the Villa Romeria property, including a floor-level survey with a
manometer (CEA, 1996). The intent of CEA's investigation was to evaluate the structural
integrity of the condominium structure, its appurtenances, and the overall site from readily
observable evidence, verbal and written information they were given, and their
"engineering judgement." Subsurface and geologic investigations of the property were not
undertaken. Rather, CEA documented the surficial site conditions and distress features
(i.e., cracks) observed in the interior walls, ceilings, and slab-on-grade floors at 7553 and
7555 Romeria Street. CEA also checked doors for operability. Their partial floor-level
survey within the aforementioned addresses revealed as much as a 4-inch elevation
differential across 7553 Romeria Street and an approximate 3-inch elevation differential
across 7555 Romeria Street.
At the exterior of 7555 Romeria Street, CEA found that the slab at the rear of the unit
apparently had settled as much as 1 inch in relation to the adjacent storage sheds. Cracks
were apparent at the exterior of the storage shed associated with 7555 Romeria Street.
Other observations by CEA included the presence of eave gutters to drain roofs with
downspouts that generally directed drainage water into the streets. Surface drainage in
the yard areas appeared to be well maintained.
Based on their limited review, CEA concluded that the possible contributors to the
observed distress could include expansive soils, slope creep or some drift of the curb [crib]
wall behind 7553 Romeria Street, lateral fill extension, and/or fill settlement due to
differential compressibility in a cut/fill transition lot. Although slope instability was
mentioned in their conclusions, CEA indicated that additional exploratory work would be
required to state with any certainty that this phenomena was responsible for the observed
distress. However, CEA indicated that the closest landslide to the Villa Romeria property
was approximately ¼-mile to the west, on La Costa Avenue.
CEA identified typical mitigation measures including small-diameter pipe piles or pin piles,
CIDH piles, driven conventional piles, compaction grouting, and sister footings, and
described the advantages and disadvantages of some of the aforementioned techniques.
CEA also offered recommendations for repairing cracks in slab-on-grade floors and dry
walls, and landscaping and drainage procedures.
Based on our review of structural calculations and associated drawings prepared by CEA
(CEA, 1998c), GSI understands that the perimeter footing along the northwesterly side of
the Villa Romeria condominium building was underpinned and re-leveled using
hydraulically driven small-diameter pipe piles. In their February 9, 1998 report
(CEA, 1998c), CEA stated that they inspected the Villa Romeria condominium and
grounds, and based on their review of available topographic and soils data, their thorough
inspection, as well as reviews of their floor-level survey data and their contract proposal,
it was their "judgement" that the soils beneath the Villa Romeria condominium building
would not experience detrimental lateral movement. In CEA (1998c), CEA also stated that
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they would submit another letter certifying that the piles were driven to the specified
capacity, upon completion of the pile driving. On July 20, 1998, CEA prepared a letter
stating that the small-diameter piles were driven to the specified capacity or greater, and
that all work requiring special inspection had been completed in accordance with the
permit requirements (CEA, 1998b). Shortly thereafter, CEA prepared another letter
(CEA, 1998a) stating that following issuance of the permit for the foundation repair by the
City of Carlsbad, they received construction drawings for the Villa Romeria property
showing thatthe continuous foundations were well reinforced. To that end CEA stated that
they repositioned the pile caps during repair construction to take advantage of the stronger
foundation, and recommended that the City of Carlsbad accept the modified design.
Based on statements provided by appellants during the June 11, 2019 City of Carlsbad
City Council hearing and in various emails entered into the public record, GSI understands
that the Villa Romeria unit located at 7551 Romeria Street required foundation repair in
2014. There was mention in some of the project appellant emails entered into the public
record for the Romeria Pointe project that American Geotechnical, Inc. (AGI) performed an
evaluation of the Villa Romeria property prior to the repair work. GSI requested the
summary report of AGl's study from the City of Carlsbad. However, it was not included in
their files. According to Mr. Allen, based on his personal communication with
Mr. Steve Helfrich of Helfrich-Associates, which was the consultant-of-record for the 2014
foundation retrofit, AGI conducted a very limited investigation of the Villa Romeria property.
We understand from Mr. Allen that AGI researched site geology, described the distress
features, performed a floor-level survey, and oversaw a leak test. Mr. Allen stated that
according to Mr. Helfrich, the existing geotechnical reports by C&C and CEA were the
geotechnical basis of design for the 2014 foundation retrofit. It should be acknowledged
that GSI reserves the right to review any AGI document for the Villa Romeria property to
evaluate the appellants' claims regarding "slippage" and/or slope instability.
Plans showing the 2014 foundation repair at the Villa Romeria property were prepared by
Helfrich-Associates (Helfrich-Associates, 2014b) . The plans included a floor-level survey
performed at the 7551 Romeria Street address showing an elevation differential of 1. 7 feet
over a horizontal distance of approximately 33 feet with an overall decrease in floor
elevations toward the northeasterly corner of this unit. For the repair, Helfrich-Associates
(2014b) showed the installation of seven (7) hydraulically driven, small-diameter piles along
the northerly side of 7551 Romeria Street and two (2) similar piles along the northwesterly
side of this residence. The intent of the piles was to transfer building loads through the
existing fill soils into the underlying formational materials, while re-leveling the residential
unit. Helfrich-Associates (2014b) also depicted the injection of a polyurethane foam
introduced through ports drilled into the concrete floor slab to fill the voids created during
the re-leveling process. Helfrich-Associates prepared a report providing recommendations
and engineering calculations for the foundation retrofit (Helfrich-Associates, 2014c), and
prepared a letter certifying the pile installation (Helfrich-Associates, 2014a}. According to
Helfrich-Associates (2014a}, nine (9) resistance piles were advanced to encounter earth
materials providing a minimum resistance of 4,000 pounds per square inch (psi} with final
depths ranging between 7 and 37 feet. Helfrich-Associates (2014a} also indicated that the
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affected parts of the foundations were lifted a maximum of 1 ½ inches. GSI has not been
provided with any geotechnical reports that include monitoring of the installed foundation
retrofit at the Villa Romeria property nor conclusions regarding its effectiveness.
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